Brain Breaks vs. Movement Breaks: What’s the Difference?

The holistic growth of the student is becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing educational landscape. Test scores and academic rigor are important however, a growing amount of research reveals a key factor that is often left unnoticed: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more vital. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are becoming the standard. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule and uncover the science that explains the benefits of these breaks, and present actionable strategies for educators and administrators.

What are the movement breaks at schools?

Movement Breaks Also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or Physical Activity breaks, are short breaks during the school day where students are encouraged to participate with physical activity. These breaks may include stretching, dancing, more structured exercises or games, or mindfulness activities. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set program, the movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place jacks
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide and light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of movement breaks on health is one of the most compelling reasons for including them into your routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents get 60 minutes of regular physical activity. However, many students aren't meeting this standard because of the long hours they spend sitting in classrooms.

School breaks during movement offer several health advantages:

• Improve your fitness levels for your cardiovascular system
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Support healthy weight management
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and encourages the creation of long-term healthy routines.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to popular belief that more time on academics will result in better performance studies show that integrating breaks in movement can increase the academic level. Physical activity boosts blood flow to your brain. This delivers oxygen and nutrients that are vital for brain function.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Increased focus on task

The results of studies have shown that students who receive breaks for movement return to their work with greater concentration and show better achievement scores than those without such breaks.

3. Well-being of the Mind and Emotions

The mental health of children is an increasing concern with stress, anxiety and depression affecting many school-age youngsters. The movement breaks play an important part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins are released and give you a feeling of happiness
• Social interaction and teamwork

Exercise during the school day can provide a healthy outlet for pent-up anger, frustration, or worry, helping to create a positive classroom environment.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD or sensory processing problems or other disabilities may benefit from movement breaks. These students will benefit from exercise in regulating their energy levels, improving executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because they are adaptable they can be tailored to meet the requirements of various age groups, physical abilities, and learning styles. The types of breaks offered range from simple chair stretches up to interactive group exercises. They guarantee that every student can succeed.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly in long instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as running, jumping, or quick games.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, stories or other themes that keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking a break to move.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Movement breaks are equally crucial. Teachers can conduct video-based activities or assign students tasks they can do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the class?

However studies show that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. The breaks during movement are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How do we find enough time to move in an already packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes--and can be built into the transition between subjects or during time that require intense concentration. Even short activities can bring noticeable advantages.

What happens if the space in which we have is limited?

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space, or can be performed by standing in front of desks. In small classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or simple arm and hand movements can be effective.

The Greater Impact: Movement Breaks and School Culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about the individual benefit; it's about building the school's culture of wellbeing, health, and lifelong learning. Schools that prioritize exercise are likely to have:

• Healthier overall for students and fewer absences
• School spirit and community involvement are boosted
• Greater satisfaction with the teacher and lower burnout rates
• Academic results that are stronger

Other wellness-related initiatives, like bullying prevention, nutrition education, social-emotional training, and social-emotional-learning can be aligned with movement breaks.

Tips for Getting Started

1. Start slow: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to implement breaks for movement?

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes, but the timing can be adjusted to suit each school's unique needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Many effective movement activities do not require any equipment or simple objects like balls, scarves or even music.

Incorporating movements into your school day is a simple approach that has proven advantages. From boosting academic performance and physical health to supporting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom The research proves: movement matters. It is possible to make a difference in the lives of your children, whether you're a teacher or administrator, a parent or a politician.

Make movement an essential aspect of the school day for every student. Students learn, grow and prosper when they move.